Hikikomori UKConnection, Information and Shared Understanding
We provide free opportunities for families affected by prolonged extreme social withdrawal to connect with others, access reliable information, and take part in discussions that promote understanding and reduce isolation.
What we offer consists of information-sharing and peer discussion for families. We do not provide individual clinical advice, assessment, counselling, or treatment for families or for young people.
Explore Information & Resources
Family Sessions
Monthly online family meet-ups and termly Q&A sessions offering opportunities for discussion, shared learning, and access to evidence-informed information.
Services Directory
Information about mental health services, specialist providers, charities, and other organisations that may be relevant to families affected by prolonged social withdrawal.
Our Partners
The researchers, organisations, charities, and networks we collaborate with in the UK and internationally.
Online Families Meet-Ups
We run a monthly online discussion group for parents and family members of young people experiencing prolonged extreme social withdrawal. These sessions are for family members only and are not attended by the young person themselves.
The group provides a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space where families can connect with others who understand the challenges of supporting a loved one experiencing prolonged extreme social withdrawal. Sessions are facilitated by volunteers who have lived experience within their own families. The meetings are intended to encourage discussion, shared learning, and peer connection, rather than to provide counselling, therapy, or professional advice.
Usually the second Wednesday of each month
6:30pm to 8:30pm (UK time)
Free of charge. Online via video call. Family members only.
Upcoming dates are advertised on this website and in our Facebook group Hikikomori Parents UK. See upcoming dates
Termly Q&A Sessions
We regularly organise online Q&A sessions with experts working in the fields of mental health, social withdrawal, education, policy, and research related to Hikikomori. These sessions take place on a termly basis.
The sessions provide families with an opportunity to hear directly from health professionals, researchers, and practitioners, and to ask questions in a respectful, moderated environment.
The network does not promote any single model, treatment, or point of view. Instead, we aim to present a broad range of evidence-informed perspectives, enabling families to better understand the available information and consider how it may relate to their own circumstances.
Please note: These sessions are intended for information-sharing and discussion. They do not provide individual clinical advice, assessment, counselling, or treatment.
This network is not a crisis service.
If you or someone is in immediate danger, please call 999. For emotional support at any time, contact Samaritans on 116 123 (free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week). For non-emergency medical help, call NHS 111.